Blade of a "Sax" (utility sword)
Cultureprobably
Frankish
Date500s–600s
Mediumsteel
Dimensions60.3 × 21.3 cm (23 3/4 × 8 3/8 in.), 1 lb, 2 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
MarkingsWhite-painted "138" and red painted "293." (?) on obverse, red painted "63" on reverse.
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.454
DescriptionIron, in excavated condition. Robust, short, and broad blade. Straight, single-edged blade, with wide flat back, edges parallel for about 3/4 of overall length whence they gently curve towards an off-center point. The back edge is followed by pair of parallel narrow, shallow recessed lines. Shoulder taper only slightly to broad tang that tapers abruptly into "rat-tail," with slightly bent end; tang is quite long overall.ProvenancePurchased by John Woodman Higgins as part of a lot of items said to be from Aix-en-Provence, from Sumner Healey (NYC) on 20 April 1929. Given to the Museum on 15 December 1931. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
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